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Lucy Buglass (45 KP) rated A Simple Favor (2018) in Movies
Jun 20, 2019
A sexy, stylish and smart mystery
The first time I saw a trailer for A Simple Favor, I was sucked in. We learn that this story follows Emily, a mysterious, secretive woman, and why she went missing. I love a good mystery, and immediately knew I had to go and see it ASAP to answer that simple question: what happened to Emily? On a separate note, I really like both Kendrick and Lively, so was interested to see the two of them in the leading roles. The trailer alluded to some interesting dynamics between the two, which made it more appealing.
The film is told from Kendrick’s perspective, as a single mum and lifestyle vlogger, Stephanie. She has a reputation for always wanting to keep her hands busy and stick her nose in everything, much to the annoyance of the other mums in the neighbourhood. Because of this, she is quite an isolated character, which ultimately leads her to befriend Emily. The two are polar opposites; Stephanie is a quirky, awkward and cheerful person, whilst Emily is sarcastic, brash and cynical. This pairing is a delight to watch on screen, as their friendship becomes a strange and complicated one.
When we’re first introduced to Emily, she has a powerful presence, emphasised by her luxurious and fashionable dress sense. One thing that has stood out to me and many other reviewers, is the stunning costume and set design and how they contrast with each other throughout the narrative. Characters personalities are brought to life through their wardrobes, perfectly crafted to speak louder than words could. I don’t normally place so much focus on costumes in my reviews, but in A Simple Favor’s case, it’s so important.
Unsurprisingly, the story is full of twists and turns as we are gradually shown what truly did happen to Emily. There’s not much I can say about this without spoiling it, but it’s a thrilling ride from start to finish. Admittedly it feels far-fetched in places, but I wasn’t bothered by this to the extent some others were. It isn’t the strongest thriller story I’ve seen, but it was still very entertaining.
Emily’s husband and son play central roles too, both expertly acted throughout. Class divide is a clear theme throughout the film, and I loved the way both Stephanie’s and Emily’s family compared and often clashed with each other. The visuals do a great job of emphasising this divide, juxtaposing luxurious environments with more humble ones. The visuals do make up for a weaker storyline, as they transport you to the characters world.
Overall, A Simple Favor is worth a watch and makes for a very entertaining couple of hours. If you’re a fan of thrillers with a bit of comedy thrown into the mix, I’m sure you’ll enjoy this one. It’s nothing particularly outstanding, but I still thought it was a good film.
https://lucygoestohollywood.com/2018/10/08/a-simple-favor-a-sexy-stylish-and-smart-mystery/
The film is told from Kendrick’s perspective, as a single mum and lifestyle vlogger, Stephanie. She has a reputation for always wanting to keep her hands busy and stick her nose in everything, much to the annoyance of the other mums in the neighbourhood. Because of this, she is quite an isolated character, which ultimately leads her to befriend Emily. The two are polar opposites; Stephanie is a quirky, awkward and cheerful person, whilst Emily is sarcastic, brash and cynical. This pairing is a delight to watch on screen, as their friendship becomes a strange and complicated one.
When we’re first introduced to Emily, she has a powerful presence, emphasised by her luxurious and fashionable dress sense. One thing that has stood out to me and many other reviewers, is the stunning costume and set design and how they contrast with each other throughout the narrative. Characters personalities are brought to life through their wardrobes, perfectly crafted to speak louder than words could. I don’t normally place so much focus on costumes in my reviews, but in A Simple Favor’s case, it’s so important.
Unsurprisingly, the story is full of twists and turns as we are gradually shown what truly did happen to Emily. There’s not much I can say about this without spoiling it, but it’s a thrilling ride from start to finish. Admittedly it feels far-fetched in places, but I wasn’t bothered by this to the extent some others were. It isn’t the strongest thriller story I’ve seen, but it was still very entertaining.
Emily’s husband and son play central roles too, both expertly acted throughout. Class divide is a clear theme throughout the film, and I loved the way both Stephanie’s and Emily’s family compared and often clashed with each other. The visuals do a great job of emphasising this divide, juxtaposing luxurious environments with more humble ones. The visuals do make up for a weaker storyline, as they transport you to the characters world.
Overall, A Simple Favor is worth a watch and makes for a very entertaining couple of hours. If you’re a fan of thrillers with a bit of comedy thrown into the mix, I’m sure you’ll enjoy this one. It’s nothing particularly outstanding, but I still thought it was a good film.
https://lucygoestohollywood.com/2018/10/08/a-simple-favor-a-sexy-stylish-and-smart-mystery/
Sensitivemuse (246 KP) rated Her Every Fear in Books
Mar 5, 2018
Suspenseful with a hateful villain!
I love these kinds of stories where there’s a twist with a horrible villain that’s rotten to the core. There’s plenty of mystery and the creep factor is definitely there throughout the book.
What I liked about the book was the mood and the way it’s written. The element of mystery is excellent. You’re even doubting Kate and questioning her sanity because of certain events in the book. When you realize it’s all real the creep factor greatly increases.
The characters in this book are well done. You do feel for Corbin but at the same time, he brought it upon himself. (Doesn’t anyone just TALK about it anymore? It’s all about just lashing out and getting revenge???!!) And Henry, he’s just a special character all in his own group. I’ve read some pretty hateful characters...but Henry’s pretty high up on the list. He’s got some pretty serious issues and he’s overall a pretty unlikable character. But, to his credit he’s devious. Devious to the point where he could be a runner for villain of the year. His planning and methods were crafty and calculating. Imagining having someone like Henry in your vicinity is enough to get the hairs on your arms rise.
The plot was well done and flowing nicely. There is also a good amount of backstory throughout the novel so it helps you understand the actions and behavior of the characters, and that’s what I really enjoyed the most of this book. The climax of the novel was also very well done and everything comes to a perfect closing towards the end.
Two things that irked me in this book; Kate and Alan. Alan’s creepy in his own way (harmless creep) but a creep nevertheless. He’s awkward and not that likable but then again, Kate’s choices aren’t really that stellar anyway (not her fault).
Another thing; I have no idea why the author had to be so descriptive to the point as to describe *exactly* what novel Kate’s reading, what type of music Alan is listening to, etc. Are you trying to name drop? To advertise? It was to the point where it got annoying - perhaps it’s because I’ve had bad experiences with this type of writing so I’m thinking that’s why it stands out and irked me. Next time, no need to advertise? Please?
Greatly recommended for thriller lovers! You got a good villain to hate here!
What I liked about the book was the mood and the way it’s written. The element of mystery is excellent. You’re even doubting Kate and questioning her sanity because of certain events in the book. When you realize it’s all real the creep factor greatly increases.
The characters in this book are well done. You do feel for Corbin but at the same time, he brought it upon himself. (Doesn’t anyone just TALK about it anymore? It’s all about just lashing out and getting revenge???!!) And Henry, he’s just a special character all in his own group. I’ve read some pretty hateful characters...but Henry’s pretty high up on the list. He’s got some pretty serious issues and he’s overall a pretty unlikable character. But, to his credit he’s devious. Devious to the point where he could be a runner for villain of the year. His planning and methods were crafty and calculating. Imagining having someone like Henry in your vicinity is enough to get the hairs on your arms rise.
The plot was well done and flowing nicely. There is also a good amount of backstory throughout the novel so it helps you understand the actions and behavior of the characters, and that’s what I really enjoyed the most of this book. The climax of the novel was also very well done and everything comes to a perfect closing towards the end.
Two things that irked me in this book; Kate and Alan. Alan’s creepy in his own way (harmless creep) but a creep nevertheless. He’s awkward and not that likable but then again, Kate’s choices aren’t really that stellar anyway (not her fault).
Another thing; I have no idea why the author had to be so descriptive to the point as to describe *exactly* what novel Kate’s reading, what type of music Alan is listening to, etc. Are you trying to name drop? To advertise? It was to the point where it got annoying - perhaps it’s because I’ve had bad experiences with this type of writing so I’m thinking that’s why it stands out and irked me. Next time, no need to advertise? Please?
Greatly recommended for thriller lovers! You got a good villain to hate here!
Zuky the BookBum (15 KP) rated Painkiller in Books
Mar 15, 2018
Also read my review here: http://bookbum.weebly.com/book-reviews/painkiller-by-n-j-fountain
<i><b>I cannot go on like this. I feel such a burden to you. You are young and can start again. You deserve that chance. By the time you read this I will be dead. Do not grieve for me, for I am now without pain.</i></b>
This was a real page-turner from page one! Would have been unputdownable if it hadnt been for the fact that I <i>had</i> to put it down while at work.
I found myself absolutely loving Monicas character. Ive seen a couple of reviews that state her as unlikable but I thought she was very likable! She was a really unique character due to her constant pain and the way that affects her daily life and relationships. I loved that she could be sassy, lovely, and angry all in one go, she was a really fun character to immerse yourself in.
The plot of the unreliable narrator, the secretive husband etc wasnt unique, Ive read several books very similar to it in the past year in fact, but there was a certain edge to this book that made it so much more intriguing than some of the others Ive read. Its not that the twists were much better or more unpredictable than those in the other novels, its just simply that I enjoyed the writing style, characters and pace of this book more. For a mystery like this, novels usually try to cram as much as they can into the story to make the biggest number of twists possible, to get the reader excited, but this was nice and slow paced. It had just the right amount of shock moments in it, you didnt feel overwhelmed by it at all.
The ending really got to me and was certainly not how I expected this book to end up. Ill admit that I got a little emotional. If youre a mystery thriller junkie like me, I definitely recommend this, its one of the best Ive read this year.
Thanks to Netgalley and Little, Brown Book Group UK for giving me the opportunity to read this in exchange for an honest review.
<i><b>I cannot go on like this. I feel such a burden to you. You are young and can start again. You deserve that chance. By the time you read this I will be dead. Do not grieve for me, for I am now without pain.</i></b>
This was a real page-turner from page one! Would have been unputdownable if it hadnt been for the fact that I <i>had</i> to put it down while at work.
I found myself absolutely loving Monicas character. Ive seen a couple of reviews that state her as unlikable but I thought she was very likable! She was a really unique character due to her constant pain and the way that affects her daily life and relationships. I loved that she could be sassy, lovely, and angry all in one go, she was a really fun character to immerse yourself in.
The plot of the unreliable narrator, the secretive husband etc wasnt unique, Ive read several books very similar to it in the past year in fact, but there was a certain edge to this book that made it so much more intriguing than some of the others Ive read. Its not that the twists were much better or more unpredictable than those in the other novels, its just simply that I enjoyed the writing style, characters and pace of this book more. For a mystery like this, novels usually try to cram as much as they can into the story to make the biggest number of twists possible, to get the reader excited, but this was nice and slow paced. It had just the right amount of shock moments in it, you didnt feel overwhelmed by it at all.
The ending really got to me and was certainly not how I expected this book to end up. Ill admit that I got a little emotional. If youre a mystery thriller junkie like me, I definitely recommend this, its one of the best Ive read this year.
Thanks to Netgalley and Little, Brown Book Group UK for giving me the opportunity to read this in exchange for an honest review.
Jesters_folly (230 KP) rated Deep Red (Profondo rosso) (1975) in Movies
Jul 19, 2021
Contains spoilers, click to show
Deep Red (aka Profondo rosso) is a thriller/slasher from Italian writer/director Dario Argento.
When Marcus Daly (David Hemmings) witnesses the murder of the women living in the flat below him he finds himself in a race to find the murderer before he becomes their next victim. The films killer follows a lot of what would become familiar tropes in slasher films, the killer is rarely seen and when they are seen they are covered u, they use a number of different ways to kill their victims and they have a habit of sneaking around. There isn't necessarily a a lot of blood from the kills, that is to say blood is sprayed around but when there is blood it is filmed in such a way that you can't miss it, in fact they eye is drawn to it.
Speaking of eyes there are a lot of them, Dario Argento has his own style of filming, he uses filters and strange camera angles and, in Deep Red a lot of closeups on eyes, sometimes just for scene transitions.
As well as being a Slasher, Deep Red is a mystery, as the film progresses Marcus the protagonist find clues as to the identity of the killer giving the viewer the chance to work out who it is as well. But there are red herrings and a lot of things that don't necessarily make sense. There is a clockwork boy, used only one by the killer, there is a creepy girl with a possibly mad farther, two facts that really don't affect the story.
As I said, Deep Red contains a lot of the Slasher tropes but it predates most of them, even beating Halloween by three years and so you can see that it has a big influence on the modern (well 80's so not so modern now) slashers.
The down side is that Deep Red is slow, there is a lot of talking, although contained in this are some clues as to the killers identity and the level of violence isn't quite as much as some of the more modern films, it does however beat some of it's slasher predecessors such as Psycho.
Over all Deep Red is a good film, slightly more mystery than slasher but with enough kills to keep a slasher fan happy. The story does plod along at is own pace but over all an enjoyable film.
When Marcus Daly (David Hemmings) witnesses the murder of the women living in the flat below him he finds himself in a race to find the murderer before he becomes their next victim. The films killer follows a lot of what would become familiar tropes in slasher films, the killer is rarely seen and when they are seen they are covered u, they use a number of different ways to kill their victims and they have a habit of sneaking around. There isn't necessarily a a lot of blood from the kills, that is to say blood is sprayed around but when there is blood it is filmed in such a way that you can't miss it, in fact they eye is drawn to it.
Speaking of eyes there are a lot of them, Dario Argento has his own style of filming, he uses filters and strange camera angles and, in Deep Red a lot of closeups on eyes, sometimes just for scene transitions.
As well as being a Slasher, Deep Red is a mystery, as the film progresses Marcus the protagonist find clues as to the identity of the killer giving the viewer the chance to work out who it is as well. But there are red herrings and a lot of things that don't necessarily make sense. There is a clockwork boy, used only one by the killer, there is a creepy girl with a possibly mad farther, two facts that really don't affect the story.
As I said, Deep Red contains a lot of the Slasher tropes but it predates most of them, even beating Halloween by three years and so you can see that it has a big influence on the modern (well 80's so not so modern now) slashers.
The down side is that Deep Red is slow, there is a lot of talking, although contained in this are some clues as to the killers identity and the level of violence isn't quite as much as some of the more modern films, it does however beat some of it's slasher predecessors such as Psycho.
Over all Deep Red is a good film, slightly more mystery than slasher but with enough kills to keep a slasher fan happy. The story does plod along at is own pace but over all an enjoyable film.
BankofMarquis (1832 KP) rated Everybody Knows (Todos Lo Saben) (2018) in Movies
Mar 13, 2019 (Updated Mar 13, 2019)
Excellent acting from Bardem and (especially) Cruz
I have always liked, but not loved, the English language movies that Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem have been a part of. Part of the issue, I think, is that even though they are dynamic, charismatica and GOOD LOOKING screen presences that embody the very definitioni of the term "MOVIE STAR", they are working in a language that is not their native language, so something, I think, gets lost in translation. So, it was with some excitement that I checked out the Spanish language thriller EVERYBODY KNOWS (Spanish Title: TODOS LO SOBEN).
And...I wasn't disappointed. Both Bardem and (especially) Cruz shine in this familial thriller. Cruz stars as Laura, a native of Spain now living in Argentina. She (and her 2 children) come back to her small village outside of Madrid for the wedding of her younger sister. When a bad thing happens on this trip, Laura must find a way out while dealing with lingering family matters and pressures that come to the fore due to the stress of the situation.
Without putting too much of a fine point on this, Cruz is stunning. Not only is she a beautiful woman who commands the screen whenever she is on, but as her character becomes more and more physically and emotionally torn with "the situation" her raw emotions come out and you see a very real portrayal of a mother who will do anything for her children. This performance is (was?) Academy Award worthy - it is that good. This is a strong actress at the top of her game.
She is more than matched on screen by the less showey, nuanced - yet fun, at times - performance of her real life husband, Javier Bardem, who plays a person from Lara's past that is drawn into the events. Bardem won an Oscar for playing the mysterious, scary hitman, Anton Chigurh in NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MAN. This was a a character who barely spoke. In this film, he plays a lively, extroverted fun-loving person who's whole personae is called into question, quite the contrast to the English language characters I have, heretofore, known him for.
Iranian Director Asghar Farhadi (best known for THE SEPARATION) does a good job driving the story - once it gets started - he is sure handed in handling both the suspense/action moments of this movie as well as the family drama during the "many people talking around a table" scenes. This film led off the Cannes Film Festival last year and was greatly lauded.
It's not a perfect film. My friend who saw the movie with me stated (correctly) that he had never seen a movie that "started so poorly but corrected itself and finished as an excellent film" like this one did. The first 1/2 hour to 45 minutes of this 2 hour and 15 minute film is filled with introducing the myriad of characters associated with this family (and the mystery that enfolds), but it is a scattershot approach to film making and character introduction and Farhadi misses the mark more than he hits the mark during this period.
But once the mystery unfolds - and Cruz and Bardem's characters (and acting) kicks into high gear - things get quite good, quite tense and quite engrossing. Well worth the time to check it out.
Letter Grade B+: (C for the first 45 minutes, A for the last hour and a half)
7 1/2 (out of 10) stars and you can take that to the Bank(ofMarquis)
And...I wasn't disappointed. Both Bardem and (especially) Cruz shine in this familial thriller. Cruz stars as Laura, a native of Spain now living in Argentina. She (and her 2 children) come back to her small village outside of Madrid for the wedding of her younger sister. When a bad thing happens on this trip, Laura must find a way out while dealing with lingering family matters and pressures that come to the fore due to the stress of the situation.
Without putting too much of a fine point on this, Cruz is stunning. Not only is she a beautiful woman who commands the screen whenever she is on, but as her character becomes more and more physically and emotionally torn with "the situation" her raw emotions come out and you see a very real portrayal of a mother who will do anything for her children. This performance is (was?) Academy Award worthy - it is that good. This is a strong actress at the top of her game.
She is more than matched on screen by the less showey, nuanced - yet fun, at times - performance of her real life husband, Javier Bardem, who plays a person from Lara's past that is drawn into the events. Bardem won an Oscar for playing the mysterious, scary hitman, Anton Chigurh in NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MAN. This was a a character who barely spoke. In this film, he plays a lively, extroverted fun-loving person who's whole personae is called into question, quite the contrast to the English language characters I have, heretofore, known him for.
Iranian Director Asghar Farhadi (best known for THE SEPARATION) does a good job driving the story - once it gets started - he is sure handed in handling both the suspense/action moments of this movie as well as the family drama during the "many people talking around a table" scenes. This film led off the Cannes Film Festival last year and was greatly lauded.
It's not a perfect film. My friend who saw the movie with me stated (correctly) that he had never seen a movie that "started so poorly but corrected itself and finished as an excellent film" like this one did. The first 1/2 hour to 45 minutes of this 2 hour and 15 minute film is filled with introducing the myriad of characters associated with this family (and the mystery that enfolds), but it is a scattershot approach to film making and character introduction and Farhadi misses the mark more than he hits the mark during this period.
But once the mystery unfolds - and Cruz and Bardem's characters (and acting) kicks into high gear - things get quite good, quite tense and quite engrossing. Well worth the time to check it out.
Letter Grade B+: (C for the first 45 minutes, A for the last hour and a half)
7 1/2 (out of 10) stars and you can take that to the Bank(ofMarquis)
Emma @ The Movies (1786 KP) rated Knock at the cabin (2023) in Movies
Feb 28, 2023
When M. Night Shyamalan's name comes up on something, my brow furrows and I purse my lips... I'm never quite sure how to feel.
Eric, Andrew and Wen, take an idyllic trip to a peaceful cabin. But that peace is shattered when the knock-off Guardians of the Galaxy show up.
First thing I want to say, despite it being an M.NS film, it doesn't have the usual dubious tangent in it. I suspect we can put this down to the fact it's based on source material, namely The Cabin at the End of the World by Paul Trembley.
I wanted to see what I could talk about without spoiling the film at all. The synopsis is fairly vague, but intriguing. Then I rewatched the trailer, and from that, I could probably talk about the majority of this hour and forty minute film. The latter basically telling everything makes me wonder how it wasn't spoiled for me going in.
Knock at the Cabin boils down to a look at personal faith in the face of terror, for those on both sides of the incident.
While the majority of the story is set in the isolated cabin, we're shown flashbacks to Eric and Andrew's life. Heartbreak, trauma, joy, vengeance, it has been filled with so much, and that being peppered into the main story really helps to shape how we see their separate personalities and reactions.
The acting is an interesting one. The nature of the situation means that everyone is feeling a massive cycle of emotions... and somehow that works.
The group dynamic of Eric, Andrew and Wen was incredible, with Jonathan Groff and Kristen Cui being the standouts. I don't know that I would have been on board with Ben Aldridge as Andrew if it hadn't been for the pairing with Groff.
Opposite them, we get an interesting mix of characters who are led by Leonard... I am so proud of Dave Bautista right now, this was an amazing performance. I love him doing comedy (My Spy is still probably my favourite), but this was a great change of pace, he channels the character's profession into the situation so well... 5 stars for Bautista, no notes.
The other three bring up the rear with some chaotic energy. I just cannot unsee Ron Weasley though. I know he's been in other things since then, but I haven't happened across any of them, and as such, he was entirely distracting. It wasn't a bad turn, but it did overwhelm Nikki Amuka-Bird and Abby Quinn's roles for me.
M. Night Shymalan does his cameo and throws in his usual colour references for the regular viewers. I won't go into that, as it definitely constitutes spoilers, but it might not be something that's common knowledge, so absolutely worth a Google afterwards.
IMDb lists Knock at the Cabin as horror, mystery and thriller. Thriller, check. Mystery, a stretch. Horror, in my opinion, completely inaccurate. Having "horror" over everything about this film put people off watching it, and that's a great shame.
I was left with one big thought after seeing this, and that's that somewhere, in a remote cabin, a group of people have been playing this game for the last 3 years.
Originally posted on: https://emmaatthemovies.blogspot.com/2023/02/knock-at-cabin-movie-review.html
Eric, Andrew and Wen, take an idyllic trip to a peaceful cabin. But that peace is shattered when the knock-off Guardians of the Galaxy show up.
First thing I want to say, despite it being an M.NS film, it doesn't have the usual dubious tangent in it. I suspect we can put this down to the fact it's based on source material, namely The Cabin at the End of the World by Paul Trembley.
I wanted to see what I could talk about without spoiling the film at all. The synopsis is fairly vague, but intriguing. Then I rewatched the trailer, and from that, I could probably talk about the majority of this hour and forty minute film. The latter basically telling everything makes me wonder how it wasn't spoiled for me going in.
Knock at the Cabin boils down to a look at personal faith in the face of terror, for those on both sides of the incident.
While the majority of the story is set in the isolated cabin, we're shown flashbacks to Eric and Andrew's life. Heartbreak, trauma, joy, vengeance, it has been filled with so much, and that being peppered into the main story really helps to shape how we see their separate personalities and reactions.
The acting is an interesting one. The nature of the situation means that everyone is feeling a massive cycle of emotions... and somehow that works.
The group dynamic of Eric, Andrew and Wen was incredible, with Jonathan Groff and Kristen Cui being the standouts. I don't know that I would have been on board with Ben Aldridge as Andrew if it hadn't been for the pairing with Groff.
Opposite them, we get an interesting mix of characters who are led by Leonard... I am so proud of Dave Bautista right now, this was an amazing performance. I love him doing comedy (My Spy is still probably my favourite), but this was a great change of pace, he channels the character's profession into the situation so well... 5 stars for Bautista, no notes.
The other three bring up the rear with some chaotic energy. I just cannot unsee Ron Weasley though. I know he's been in other things since then, but I haven't happened across any of them, and as such, he was entirely distracting. It wasn't a bad turn, but it did overwhelm Nikki Amuka-Bird and Abby Quinn's roles for me.
M. Night Shymalan does his cameo and throws in his usual colour references for the regular viewers. I won't go into that, as it definitely constitutes spoilers, but it might not be something that's common knowledge, so absolutely worth a Google afterwards.
IMDb lists Knock at the Cabin as horror, mystery and thriller. Thriller, check. Mystery, a stretch. Horror, in my opinion, completely inaccurate. Having "horror" over everything about this film put people off watching it, and that's a great shame.
I was left with one big thought after seeing this, and that's that somewhere, in a remote cabin, a group of people have been playing this game for the last 3 years.
Originally posted on: https://emmaatthemovies.blogspot.com/2023/02/knock-at-cabin-movie-review.html
Ivana A. | Diary of Difference (1171 KP) rated The Silent Patient in Books
Dec 7, 2018
Full review on my blog: www.diaryofdifference.com
A book that speaks about feelings, and lack of them. Love and emotions. Art and passion. Psychology and memories. And how our childhood might define who we will become.
I have never felt such urgency to read another chapter as I have felt it with The Silent Patient. Such impatience, such excitement. It’s a feeling I wish I can get with all the books in my life.
ALICIA
Alicia Berenson writes a diary as a release, an outlet – and to prove to her beloved husband that everything is fine. She can’t bear the thought of worrying Gabriel, or causing him pain.
Until, late one evening, Alicia shoots Gabriel five times and then never speaks another word.
THEO
Forensic psychotherapist Theo Faber is convinced he can successfully treat Alicia, where all others have failed. Obsessed with investigating her crime, his discoveries suggest Alicia’s silence goes far deeper than he first thought.
And if she speaks, would he want to hear the truth?
I love these types of books. Besides the mystery and thriller, the psychological part was an incredibly well-put together piece of art.
The beginning of the story is nice and slow, but with a temptation in it, that makes you flip the pages so fast. A great world and character building, and great character hopping from Theo to Alicia, from chapter to chapter.
Even though we don’t get to have Alicia talking in the book, she says so much. All her movements, all her reactions, or lack of reaction is so well written. Her lack of speaking doesn’t stop her from moving the story forward, and being the main protagonist here.
On the other hand, we have Theo, who we see and get to know more and more with each chapter. A complicated character, with a cute oddness to himself, a characteristic I find with many psychotherapists. He is the person we see at the front of the screen, presenting himself in the spotlight, together with Alicia.
A well-written plot, with an amazing cliff-hanger and a wonderful plot-twist in the end. I didn’t expect it, and I am awfully satisfied of how the authors decides to conclude the book.
I enjoyed this book so much, and I recommend it to all the psychological thriller book readers here. Don’t miss this one, and get your copy today. It’s so worth it!
Thank you to NetGalley and Orion Publishing Group, for providing me with an e-copy, in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and completely unbiased.
A book that speaks about feelings, and lack of them. Love and emotions. Art and passion. Psychology and memories. And how our childhood might define who we will become.
I have never felt such urgency to read another chapter as I have felt it with The Silent Patient. Such impatience, such excitement. It’s a feeling I wish I can get with all the books in my life.
ALICIA
Alicia Berenson writes a diary as a release, an outlet – and to prove to her beloved husband that everything is fine. She can’t bear the thought of worrying Gabriel, or causing him pain.
Until, late one evening, Alicia shoots Gabriel five times and then never speaks another word.
THEO
Forensic psychotherapist Theo Faber is convinced he can successfully treat Alicia, where all others have failed. Obsessed with investigating her crime, his discoveries suggest Alicia’s silence goes far deeper than he first thought.
And if she speaks, would he want to hear the truth?
I love these types of books. Besides the mystery and thriller, the psychological part was an incredibly well-put together piece of art.
The beginning of the story is nice and slow, but with a temptation in it, that makes you flip the pages so fast. A great world and character building, and great character hopping from Theo to Alicia, from chapter to chapter.
Even though we don’t get to have Alicia talking in the book, she says so much. All her movements, all her reactions, or lack of reaction is so well written. Her lack of speaking doesn’t stop her from moving the story forward, and being the main protagonist here.
On the other hand, we have Theo, who we see and get to know more and more with each chapter. A complicated character, with a cute oddness to himself, a characteristic I find with many psychotherapists. He is the person we see at the front of the screen, presenting himself in the spotlight, together with Alicia.
A well-written plot, with an amazing cliff-hanger and a wonderful plot-twist in the end. I didn’t expect it, and I am awfully satisfied of how the authors decides to conclude the book.
I enjoyed this book so much, and I recommend it to all the psychological thriller book readers here. Don’t miss this one, and get your copy today. It’s so worth it!
Thank you to NetGalley and Orion Publishing Group, for providing me with an e-copy, in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and completely unbiased.
LeftSideCut (3776 KP) rated Last Night in Soho (2021) in Movies
Dec 1, 2021
Straight off the bat, there is a whole lot to love about Last Night in Soho. It's a modern-London thriller with a dashing of supernatural horror. It's a modern horror with lashings of giallo. It's a giallo that is also a murder mystery. It bursting with colour, and has two exceptionally talented actors at it's helm.
I enjoy Anya Taylor-Joy in pretty much anything she's in, and the same applies here, stealing most of the scenes that she's in. Thomasin McKenzie is an infectiously likable protagonist, whether she's battling seedy-men ghosts, or the struggles of going to University in England (the scene near the beginning where she's stuck at a dorm party is a literal nightmare put straight onto the screen if you ask me). She's fantastic here as she was in Jojo Rabbit.
It boasts a strong supporting cast as well. Matt Smith plays a convincing shit-bag, and is quite clearly having a ball shouting in a cockney accent. It's always a pleasure to see Terence Stamp, and of course, Diana Rigg was one of the best in the game, and her performance here in her final role is testament to that.
LNIS is dripping with style, which is to be expected from Edgar Wright, but it's more subtle than a lot of his other works, substituting clever edits, cuts, and comedy for a film that's visual crack with a more serious tone. The vibrancy of its colour pallettes, both in the modern and 60s settings are as important as any character. Every frame feels like it's been lovingly poured over and is cinematic in every sense of the word. It also boasts a stellar soundtrack. I didn't realise how much I fucking love a bit of Cilla Black but here we are.
The only minor gripes I have is that it does drag ever so slightly during the final third. At one point it feels like a natural resolve is near, but then the narrative continues for a while longer before the twists and turns land. It also goes a little slasher-y at one point, which isn't necessarily an issue, but it feels a bit alien to the rest of the vibe (still manages to be a visually striking moment though!)
Overall though, Last Night in Soho is an incredibly engaging and enjoyable thriller, and is a proud addition to both Wright's filmography, and the modern resurgence of top quality horror.
I enjoy Anya Taylor-Joy in pretty much anything she's in, and the same applies here, stealing most of the scenes that she's in. Thomasin McKenzie is an infectiously likable protagonist, whether she's battling seedy-men ghosts, or the struggles of going to University in England (the scene near the beginning where she's stuck at a dorm party is a literal nightmare put straight onto the screen if you ask me). She's fantastic here as she was in Jojo Rabbit.
It boasts a strong supporting cast as well. Matt Smith plays a convincing shit-bag, and is quite clearly having a ball shouting in a cockney accent. It's always a pleasure to see Terence Stamp, and of course, Diana Rigg was one of the best in the game, and her performance here in her final role is testament to that.
LNIS is dripping with style, which is to be expected from Edgar Wright, but it's more subtle than a lot of his other works, substituting clever edits, cuts, and comedy for a film that's visual crack with a more serious tone. The vibrancy of its colour pallettes, both in the modern and 60s settings are as important as any character. Every frame feels like it's been lovingly poured over and is cinematic in every sense of the word. It also boasts a stellar soundtrack. I didn't realise how much I fucking love a bit of Cilla Black but here we are.
The only minor gripes I have is that it does drag ever so slightly during the final third. At one point it feels like a natural resolve is near, but then the narrative continues for a while longer before the twists and turns land. It also goes a little slasher-y at one point, which isn't necessarily an issue, but it feels a bit alien to the rest of the vibe (still manages to be a visually striking moment though!)
Overall though, Last Night in Soho is an incredibly engaging and enjoyable thriller, and is a proud addition to both Wright's filmography, and the modern resurgence of top quality horror.
Jennifer Roup (9 KP) rated The Wife Between Us in Books
Dec 27, 2017
#GritLit Domestic Thriller Must Read
The premise of this book is captivating.
At first I think it's clear: A man left his wife for his assistant and the ex-wife is left devastated. The new bride is carried away in the new lavish lifestyle her husband-to-be is creating for her and she barely notices the subtle clues that someone is stalking her, watching her every move.
Nellie is cute, bubbly and everything that Vanessa used to be. The ex wife, Vanessa, is a recovering alcoholic living with her aunt, wondering how Richard could leave her. So she sets up on a mission to find out what Nellie has that she doesn't and to find a way to seek revenge.
If the book would have wrapped up after the first major twist in the middle of the book, I would have been impressed but the hits and twists just kept coming so it was impossible to put down.
I think the twists and turns, plus the creepy narration from an unreliable character who is clearly losing her mind were all great. I was really hooked at first. But by the end, there was just too much going on.
It's fast-paced, creepy and so vivid that you may start to think you're even being stalked too...
It's very much like The Couple Next Door, My Husband's Wife and Lie to Me and and similar thrillers. Twisted, interesting and really great characters but just a little too drag towards the end. Still recommend it though!
At first I think it's clear: A man left his wife for his assistant and the ex-wife is left devastated. The new bride is carried away in the new lavish lifestyle her husband-to-be is creating for her and she barely notices the subtle clues that someone is stalking her, watching her every move.
Nellie is cute, bubbly and everything that Vanessa used to be. The ex wife, Vanessa, is a recovering alcoholic living with her aunt, wondering how Richard could leave her. So she sets up on a mission to find out what Nellie has that she doesn't and to find a way to seek revenge.
If the book would have wrapped up after the first major twist in the middle of the book, I would have been impressed but the hits and twists just kept coming so it was impossible to put down.
I think the twists and turns, plus the creepy narration from an unreliable character who is clearly losing her mind were all great. I was really hooked at first. But by the end, there was just too much going on.
It's fast-paced, creepy and so vivid that you may start to think you're even being stalked too...
It's very much like The Couple Next Door, My Husband's Wife and Lie to Me and and similar thrillers. Twisted, interesting and really great characters but just a little too drag towards the end. Still recommend it though!
Hazel (2934 KP) rated Silent Fear (A novel inspired by true crimes) in Books
Jan 12, 2018
First off, I want to thank the authors for sending me a copy of this book in return for an honest review; please be reassured that receiving this book for free in no way influenced my review in any way.
What a fantastic read that was!
Excellent characters, brilliant and unique story line, gripping and full of suspense what more can you ask for? Well, throw in a serial killer and a deadly flu virus and you have Silent Fear! But thats not all the Morcans write in a way that immerses you into the story so that you become absorbed into the lives of the characters and the dire situation they have found themselves in through no fault of their own.
I have to admit that it was quite daunting to find my Kindle copy was 708 pages long!! Thats one heck of a beast, however, you quickly forget that as you are swept along from chapter to chapter with ease picking up the subtle clues dropped along the way that you dont initially recognise as being clues until the excellent twist at the end when all is revealed.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good whodunnit or mystery or thriller or serial killer story or actually, anyone who loves reading a great book and I would urge you to check out the Morcans other works some of which I have been lucky enough to have also read- see my blog for the links - <a href="https://readingstuffnthings.blogspot.co.uk/2017/12/silent-fear-by-lance-james-morcan.html">Reading Stuff 'n' Things</a>.
What a fantastic read that was!
Excellent characters, brilliant and unique story line, gripping and full of suspense what more can you ask for? Well, throw in a serial killer and a deadly flu virus and you have Silent Fear! But thats not all the Morcans write in a way that immerses you into the story so that you become absorbed into the lives of the characters and the dire situation they have found themselves in through no fault of their own.
I have to admit that it was quite daunting to find my Kindle copy was 708 pages long!! Thats one heck of a beast, however, you quickly forget that as you are swept along from chapter to chapter with ease picking up the subtle clues dropped along the way that you dont initially recognise as being clues until the excellent twist at the end when all is revealed.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good whodunnit or mystery or thriller or serial killer story or actually, anyone who loves reading a great book and I would urge you to check out the Morcans other works some of which I have been lucky enough to have also read- see my blog for the links - <a href="https://readingstuffnthings.blogspot.co.uk/2017/12/silent-fear-by-lance-james-morcan.html">Reading Stuff 'n' Things</a>.